An etiquette expert decodes the dreaded smart casual dress code (2024)

With party season on the horizon, you might find yourself stuck trying to decipher the dress code on the invitation.

Whether it’s a fancy black tie dress code or a relaxed Christmas party, figuring out what to wear for a formal event is never easy - especially if the hosts have asked guests to dress 'smart casual' for the occasion.

Mastering a smart casual look is a fine balancing act, particularly given there are often different levels of formality within the code itself.

To help you nail the art of smart casual dressing, we spoke with etiquette expert, podcaster and author of The Bluffer’s Guide to Etiquette William Hanson.

He explained, “The guiding piece of advice is to always play it safe and wear something more conservative if ever in doubt.”

He also advised looking to the likes of Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, Kate Middleton and Prince William for inspiration, as the young royals are frequently out and about at formal events.

From whether you can wear denim to where you can expect a smart casual dress code, here’s everything you need to know - with some outfit inspiration along the way.

As you can probably guess from the title, a smart casual dress code treads the line between formal wear and casual everyday attire.

Hanson explained you’re most likely to come across it if you’re attending dinner or drinks parties, or rubbing shoulders with VIPs at Wimbledon.

A smart casual dress code can also crop up at business-social events, like a networking night, where the dress code will most likely be listed as 'business casual'.

According to Debretts, jeans can be smart casual, but only on the condition that the event or place you’re heading to is a more laid back one. (Jeans would not be welcome at a smart casual wedding, for example.)

However, the denim in question should be immaculate - so give the ripped knees a miss.

If you do choose to wear denim, it’s recommended that you wear fitted pieces in a darker wash.

A pair of heels will also go a long way, taking your outfit into smarter rather than casual territory.

If you can help it though, it's best to save your jeans for another day.

Women have it tougher than men when trying to figure out how to dress smart casual, particularly given high heels and a fancy dress can tip you into black tie territory.

“For women this usually means something built around a more casual jacket, although many younger ladies choose to just wear a dress and no jacket,” Hanson told us.

“A skirt or trousers can be worn, although for very traditional evening social events with this dress code, ladies should be advised that trousers are not considered correct.”

“Shoes can be open toed for outdoor events and heels should not be above three inches,” he also advises.

“Jewellery should be modest and nothing showy. Ideally denim of any variety is not worn - especially ripped jeans. Leggings, mini-skirts and body-con dresses are not appropriate either."

When it comes to dressing for a smart casual event, a blazer or jacket, trousers and smart shoes are a must.

Hanson explains, “Again, as with women this is built around a jacket - such as a blazer or sports coat."

He explains, "Smart trousers, such as chinos or slacks, [should be worn] on the bottom half.”

“Do not wear tight, ripped and skinny jeans and shorts,” he adds.

The trainers, sadly, will need to stay at home too. “Shoes can be an Oxford, brogue, Derby, desert boot or loafer depending on the time of year and terrain underneath” says Hanson.

While you are welcome to wear a tie, you may run the risk of being a little too dressed up. “Ties are now not usually seen with smart casual, although can be worn. If a man is ever in doubt as to whether a tie should be worn or not then either phone the host and ask, or turn up wearing one and then remove if no other male guest is wearing one” he says.

If in doubt, go smart: “It’s always better to be slightly more formally dressed than too casual" he adds.

If you stick to the above rules, you should be good to go - with one small stipulation for women. William explained, “Women should avoid wearing white or black. Although there are some who say this no longer matters, many do still think these rules still apply, so just avoid them.”

“There are many nicer looking colours to wear, anyway,” Hanson adds, “it hardly limits one’s choice.”

Sometimes, you might be asked to attend a professional event with a dress code. William says this “should be smarter-smart casual rather than casual-smart casual."

"Remember you will still see clients and your ability will be initially judged on your appearance - whether you like it or not."

For more chat about etiquette, William Hanson runs a podcast called Help I Sexted My Boss with radio presenter Jordan North where they help solve some of your biggest problems from what to do if you accidentally hit reply all while sending a shady email to navigating the office Christmas party.

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